Last month, ten Idaho WWAMI students stepped into simulated high-stakes medical scenarios that tested their skills, sharpened their instincts, and readied them for the challenging realities of residency.
Open to all fourth-year students training in Boise, the sessions offer a concentrated, real-world experience in lifesaving care through Idaho WWAMI’s Critical Care Cardiac Boot Camp. Students gain experience in advanced cardiac life support, central line placement, airway management, lumbar puncture, thoracentesis, and paracentesis.
Held at the VA’s ICU or in the simulation lab, a satellite of UW’s WWAMI Institute for Simulation in Healthcare (WISH), the boot camp provides access to a cutting-edge learning environment
For Dr. Paula Carvalho, who has taught these sessions since 2007, the experience is very meaningful.
“It’s hugely rewarding when I see them getting proficient and comfortable with high acuity rapid-decision types of scenarios,” she said.
Supported by a team of simulation nurses, and often with students pitching in after-hours, Dr. Carvalho continues to lead these sessions with passion and purpose.
“The UW students and the veteran patients are the reasons I come to work in the morning,” she added.
Together, they’re shaping future physicians so they will be ready to serve Idaho with skill, compassion, and commitment.
